
<p><strong>Al Nassr’s AFC Champions League Elite</strong> opener turned into a night to forget, as <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a></strong> and his teammates were thoroughly outplayed in a <strong>4-0 defeat</strong> to <strong>Al Ain</strong>.</p>



<p>Amid the rout, a heated moment between Ronaldo and Al Ain’s <strong>Matias Palacios</strong> stood out, reviving a flashpoint between the two players that dates back nearly two years.</p>



<p>The incident occurred with Al Ain already up 2-0, as Ronaldo pushed forward looking to get into the box. Palacios moved to close him down, and the contact between the two escalated into a physical exchange that ended with both players on the ground, with the referee choosing not to intervene or issue a card.</p>



<p>It capped off a frustrating night for Ronaldo, who had few clear chances to make an impact himself. He sent an overhead kick over the crossbar and later saw a free kick saved late in the match, unable to prevent what became one of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/">Al Nassr</a>‘s heaviest defeats since his arrival in Saudi Arabia.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">🤬🇵🇹🇦🇷 EL CRUCE DE CRISTIANO RONALDO CON EL ARGENTINO MATÍAS PALACIOS.<br><br>El equipo de CR7 fue GOLEADO ¡0-4! 😳 <a href="https://t.co/qtkRYXamkD">pic.twitter.com/qtkRYXamkD</a></p>— Sudanalytics (@sudanalytics_) <a href="https://x.com/sudanalytics_/status/2099932071040880956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>The 2024 flashpoint between Ronaldo and Palacios</h2>



<p>Tuesday’s clash was not an isolated case, either. Ronaldo and Palacios have a history of run-ins whenever Al Nassr and Al Ain meet, with the two players’ rivalry stretching back to a similar incident two years ago.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-fall-short-of-the-scoring-world-record-across-all-competitions-after-4-0-loss-to-al-ain/"></div>


<p>In November 2024, during another meeting between Al Nassr and Al Ain in the same competition, Palacios and Ronaldo were involved in a similar altercation, with the Argentine complaining about an alleged elbow before Ronaldo ended up holding onto him as the two grappled. That match had a very different outcome for Al Nassr, who won 5-1 with Ronaldo among the scorers.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">El cruce de Matías Palacios con… CRISTIANO RONALDO en la Champions de Asia. 😳🇸🇦🇦🇷<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/euoGwpRxi0">pic.twitter.com/euoGwpRxi0</a></p>— Ataque Futbolero (@AtaqueFutbolero) <a href="https://x.com/AtaqueFutbolero/status/1853869731821830297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Al Nassr’s upcoming AFC Champions League Elite schedule</h2>



<p>After the defeat to Al Ain, Al Nassr will look to bounce back with seven matches remaining in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/afc-champions-league">AFC Champions League Elite</a> league phase. They host <strong>FK Neftchi Fergana</strong> on <strong>October 12</strong>, before facing <strong>Al Wasl</strong> on <strong>October 26</strong> and traveling to <strong>Pakhtakor</strong> on <strong>November 2</strong>.</p>



<p>The schedule continues with a home date against <strong>Al Sadd</strong> on <strong>November 24</strong> and a trip to <strong>Al Gharafa</strong> on <strong>December 8</strong>, before the campaign resumes in the new year with a home match against <strong>Al Shamal</strong> on <strong>February 8</strong> and a closing fixture away to <strong>Shabab</strong> <strong>Al Ahli</strong> on <strong>February 15.</strong></p>


Cristiano Ronaldo’s scuffle with Matias Palacios during Al Ain loss brings back 2024 incident

Cristiano Ronaldo's scuffle with Matias Palacios during Al Ain loss brings back 2024 incident - World Soccer Talk

main


<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/"><strong>Al Nassr</strong></a> open their campaign in the <strong>2026-27 AFC Champions League Elite</strong> on Tuesday, September 15, traveling to face UAE side <strong>Al Ain</strong> at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium for Matchday 1. As the club seek to start on the right foot, <strong>attention turns to whether </strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/"><strong>Cristiano Ronaldo</strong></a><strong> will feature in the starting XI</strong>.</p>



<p><strong>Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Al Nassr in their continental opener against </strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-ain/"><strong>Al Ain</strong></a>. Having completed 90 minutes in Saturday’s fixture against Al Khaleej and participating fully in team training sessions, the Portuguese forward is fully fit for selection by head coach Ange Postecoglou.</p>



<p>After missing pre-season preparations while completing extended summer recovery, Ronaldo has logged extensive minutes across Al Nassr’s dense September schedule. Starting with a matchup against Al Ittihad on September 5, followed by clashes against Abha on September 9 and Al Khaleej on September 12, <strong>the forward completed 90 minutes in all three fixtures over an eight-day stretch</strong>.</p>



<p>Tuesday’s fixture marks the third time Ronaldo will face Al Ain in an Al Nassr shirt. During the 2023-24 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/afc-champions-league/"><strong>AFC Champions League</strong></a> quarterfinals, Al Ain advanced on penalties following a split two-legged series, <strong>while their most recent meeting in the 2024-25 group stage saw Al Nassr secure a 5-1 victory</strong> with Ronaldo among the goalscorers.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/09/14211211/cristiano-ronaldo-al-nassr-al-ain-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr and Fabio Cardoso of Al Ain back in November 2024." class="wp-image-675212"><figcaption>Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr and Fabio Cardoso of Al Ain back in November 2024. (Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Al Nassr dealing with fatigue</h2>



<p>Tuesday’s match against Al Ain represents <strong>Al Nassr’s final fixture before entering the late-September international window</strong>. However, a tight turnaround has forced Postecoglou’s squad to navigate a demanding run of matches with minimal recovery time.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-2026-27-afc-champions-league-elite-schedule-dates-fixtures-and-opponents/"></div>


<p>According to Saudi outlet <em>Arriyadiyah</em>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/cristiano-ronaldo-reportedly-faces-three-absences-and-squad-fatigue-ahead-of-al-nassrs-afc-champions-league-elite-debut/"><strong>Postecoglou scaled back Monday’s session to light conditioning work to manage physical strain across the squad</strong></a>, limiting the session to roughly 45 minutes. The Australian manager chose to reduce workload intensity to manage player fatigue following a dense domestic stretch.</p>



<h2>Confirmed lineups for Al Ain and Al Nassr</h2>



<p><strong>Al Ain’s confirmed lineup (5-3-2)</strong>: Khaled Eisa; Rafa Rodriguez, Yahya Benkhaleq, Skoko; Kaku Romero Gamarra, Houssine Rahimi, Lazaro, Matias Palacios; Soufiane Rahimi, Rami Rabia, Abdoulkarim Traore.<br><strong>Head coach</strong>: Vladimir Ivic.</p>



<p><strong>Al Nassr’s confirmed lineup (4-4-2)</strong>: Nawaf Al Aqidi; Saad Al Nasser, Inigo Martinez, Abdulelah Al Amri, Mohamed Simakan, Nawaf Boushal; Abdullah Al Khaibari, Samu Costa, Cristiano Ronaldo.<br><strong>Head coach</strong>: Ange Postecoglou.</p>


Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing today? Confirmed lineups for Al Ain vs Al Nassr in 2026-27 AFC Champions League Elite

Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing today? Confirmed lineups for Al Ain vs Al Nassr in 2026-27 AFC Champions League Elite - World Soccer Talk


<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/"><strong>Cristiano Ronaldo</strong></a> is set to launch his push for a primary 2026-27 objective as <strong>Al Nassr</strong> open their <strong>AFC Champions League Elite</strong> campaign. However, heading into Tuesday’s opener, <strong>the Portuguese superstar faces a depleted attack while navigating widespread fatigue across the roster</strong>.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-nassr/"><strong>Al Nassr</strong></a> departed Dammam and established base camp in the United Arab Emirates, <strong>setting up operations in Al Ain ahead of Tuesday’s Matchday 1 clash at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium</strong>. Yet Monday’s final training session deviated significantly from head coach Ange Postecoglou’s original tactical plan.</p>



<p>According to Saudi outlet <em>Arriyadiyah</em>, <strong>Postecoglou scaled back Monday’s session to light conditioning work to manage physical strain across the squad</strong>. The Australian manager opted for a reduced workload to minimize injury risks following a demanding domestic schedule.</p>



<p>Al Nassr previously posted photos of gym work and pitch sessions on social media Sunday. However, <strong>Monday’s session at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium lasted roughly 45 minutes</strong>, with Postecoglou choosing to forgo a full tactical scrimmage, per <em>Arriyadiyah</em>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-x wp-block-embed-x"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">One last session before Asia calls 🌏💛 <a href="https://t.co/D06iPf5hce">pic.twitter.com/D06iPf5hce</a></p>— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) <a href="https://x.com/AlNassrFC_EN/status/2099568865051349065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/al-nassr-boss-ange-postecoglou-criticizes-saudi-pro-league-fixture-list-after-draw-with-al-khaleej/"><strong>Postecoglou previously voiced concerns regarding workload management</strong></a>, specifically following Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Al Khaleej. “<em>I think everyone is exhausted. Even Al Hilal lost to Neom, so the fixture congestion is taking its toll,</em>” he stated in his post-match press conference.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="WST#/news/cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-2026-27-afc-champions-league-elite-schedule-dates-fixtures-and-opponents/"></div>


<p><strong>Tuesday’s fixture against Al Ain marks Al Nassr’s fourth match in a 10-day stretch</strong>, following clashes against Al Ittihad on September 5, Abha on September 9, and Al Khaleej on September 12. Operating on two days of recovery between matches, Ronaldo will complete this fixture run before entering the upcoming international break.</p>



<h2>Three Al Nassr players already ruled out</h2>



<p>During Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Al Khaleej, Postecoglou fielded a full-strength lineup rather than rotating key starters ahead of the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/afc-champions-league/"><strong>AFC Champions League Elite</strong></a> opener. However, <strong>three key attacking options will miss Tuesday’s match</strong> due to injury.</p>



<p>French winger <strong>Kingsley Coman</strong>, <strong>Abdulrahman Ghareeb</strong>, and <strong>Ayman Yahya</strong> have been ruled out for the trip to Al Ain. Their absence leaves Postecoglou short-handed on options in wide positions, though <strong>Ronaldo is expected to lead the line alongside Sadio Mane and Joao Felix</strong> as fixtures in the starting lineup.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly faces three absences and squad fatigue ahead of Al Nassr’s AFC Champions League Elite debut

Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly faces three absences and squad fatigue ahead of Al Nassr's AFC Champions League Elite debut - World Soccer Talk

<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/manchester-city/">Manchester City</a></strong> continued their blistering form with a composed 2-0 victory in their tournament opener, expertly handling early pressure and moving within striking distance of the knockout rounds.</p>



<p>Conversely, <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-ain/">Al Ain</a></strong>’s campaign has been rocked by a 5-0 defeat at the hands of <strong>Juventus</strong>, exposing glaring defensive frailties and leaving them in dire need of a turnaround. Be sure to tune in live and catch every moment of the action!</p>



<div>
<strong>Here are all of the details of where you can watch Manchester City vs Al Ain on US television and via legal streaming:</strong>
</div><div>
<table class="table6">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td id="magenta" width="20%"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHO</strong></span></td>
<td width="70%">Manchester City vs Al Ain</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="green"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHAT</strong></span></td>
<td>FIFA Club World Cup 2025</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="sky"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHEN</strong></span></td>
<td>9pm ET / 6pm PT• Sunday, June 22, 2025</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="red"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHERE</strong></span></td>
<td><em><a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">DAZN</a></em>, TNT, TruTV, Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Sling Orange</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="yellow"><span style="color: #e04403"><strong>FREE ACCESS</strong></span></td>
<td><strong><a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">WATCH NOW ON DAZN</a></strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>

<div>
<h2>More details of how to watch</h2>
You can watch Manchester City vs Al Ain and every match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 for free on <a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">DAZN</a>. Simply register with your email to create a free account—no credit card required. The tournament is streamed in English and Spanish, live and on-demand.
</div>

<div>
The DAZN app is available on web browsers, iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Vizio), Xbox, and PlayStation consoles.
</div>

<div>
<strong>Here are the steps to watch the Club World Cup for free on DAZN:</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>1. Visit <a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">DAZN</a> or download the DAZN app.</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>2. Click the “Log In” or “Get Started” button.</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>3. Enter your email and create a password to register.</strong>
</div>
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<strong>4. Once registered, navigate to the “FIFA Club World Cup” section to stream live games.</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>5. No payment or subscription is necessary to watch the matches.</strong>
</div>

<div>
<strong>SEE MORE:</strong> <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/club-world-cup-tv-schedule-streaming-links/">Schedule of FIFA Club World Cup 2025 games on US TV and streaming</a>
</div><div>
Get your free copy of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ultimate-soccer-tv-streaming-guide/">The Ultimate Soccer TV and Streaming Guide</a> for all U.S. broadcast details on leagues around the world.
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And don’t forget to download the free <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2020/12/26/soccer-tv-schedules-app-making-it-easier-to-watch-soccer-games-on-tv/">Soccer TV Schedules App</a> for Apple or Android, with full listings of live soccer available in the U.S.
</div>


How to watch Manchester City vs Al Ain in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

How to watch Manchester City vs Al Ain in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2025 FIFA Club World Cup - World Soccer Talk

<p>The <strong>2025 FIFA Club World Cup</strong> is not only a showcase of global talent but also a celebration of rich soccer cultures across continents. Among the 32 teams that compete, several clubs from the <strong>Middle East</strong> are drawing attention, not only for their on-pitch capabilities but also for a common linguistic feature in their names. Clubs like <strong>Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia)</strong>, <strong>Al Ain (United Arab Emirates)</strong>, and <strong>Al Ahly (Egypt)</strong> all share a striking similarity: the Arabic prefix <strong>“Al”</strong>. But what exactly does this “Al” mean, and why is it so common among soccer clubs from the region?</p>



<p>In Arabic, <strong>“Al” (ال)</strong> is a <strong>definite article</strong> that translates directly to <strong>“the”</strong> in English. It’s one of the most fundamental components of Arabic grammar and is attached to countless nouns and proper names across the language. In the context of soccer clubs, <strong>“Al” is typically followed by a noun or adjective</strong> that reflects a cultural, geographical, or ideological identity.</p>



<p>For example:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Al-Hilal</strong> means <strong>“The Crescent”</strong>, a symbol widely used in Islamic culture.</li><li><strong>Al Ahly</strong> translates to <strong>“The National”</strong>, signaling patriotic or nationalistic pride.</li><li><strong>Al Ain</strong> literally means <strong>“The Spring”</strong> or <strong>“The Eye”</strong>, referring to the UAE city of Al Ain, known for its oases.</li></ul>



<p>The use of <strong>“Al” is not exclusive to soccer clubs</strong>. It’s commonly found in the names of newspapers (e.g., <em>Al Jazeera</em>), schools, companies, and even people (e.g., <em>Al Saud</em>, the ruling family of Saudi Arabia). In soccer, however, it takes on the additional layer of identity, linking the club not just to a place but to a broader cultural narrative.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Al Hilal Shocks Real Madrid With 1-1 Draw | 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Highlights" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kXPIVdc-BvU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<h2>Historical and cultural significance</h2>



<p>The prevalence of <strong>“Al” in Middle Eastern club names</strong> is deeply rooted in the region’s history. Many soccer clubs in the Arab world were established in the early to mid-20th century, a time of <strong>rising nationalism and identity formation</strong> across post-colonial states. Names like <strong>Al Ahly</strong>, founded in 1907, were chosen intentionally to express a <strong>sense of national unity and pride</strong> during times of political struggle.</p>



<p>Moreover, these names often mirror the <strong>social mission of the clubs</strong>. For instance, Al Ahly was not just a sports club; it was a hub for Egyptian resistance and intellectual activity against British rule. Similarly, <strong>Al-Hilal</strong>, established in 1957, reflects Islamic heritage and national symbolism in Saudi Arabia.</p>



<h2>Widespread usage across the region</h2>



<p>It’s not just the top-tier clubs participating in this year’s edition of the<strong> Club World Cup</strong> that carry the “Al” prefix. Across the Arab-speaking world—from <strong>Morocco to Iraq</strong>—dozens of clubs follow this naming convention. Examples include:</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/05/13094857/Cristiano-Ronaldo-4-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="Cristiano Ronaldo AL Nassr" class="wp-image-569514" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<ul><li><strong>Al-Ittihad (Libya &amp; Saudi Arabia)</strong> – “The Union”</li><li><strong>Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia)</strong> – “The Victory”</li><li><strong>Al-Sadd (Qatar)</strong> – “The Dam”</li><li><strong>Al-Shorta (Iraq)</strong> – “The Police”</li></ul>



<p>This uniformity contributes to a unique regional identity in global soccer. When viewers around the world tune into the competition, names like Al Ahly or Al-Hilal immediately signal <strong>“this is an Arab club”</strong>—even before a ball is kicked.</p>


Al-Hilal, Al Ain, Al Ahly: Why do 2025 FIFA Club World Cup participants from the Middle East have 'Al' in their names?

Al-Hilal, Al Ain, Al Ahly: Why do 2025 FIFA Club World Cup participants from the Middle East have 'Al' in their names? - World Soccer Talk

<p>As Matchday 1 concludes, all eyes now turn to <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/juventus/">Juventus</a></strong>, who have yet to make their tournament debut. Known for their legendary history rather than current form, the Italian giants are poised to make a significant impact.</p>



<p>They’ll open their campaign against <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-ain/">Al Ain</a></strong>, an emerging Asian contender hungry to prove themselves against one of Europe’s elite. Don’t miss this exciting clash—tune in and catch the action live!</p>



<div>
<strong>Here are all of the details of where you can watch Al Ain vs Juventus on US television and via legal streaming:</strong>
</div><div>
<table class="table6">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td id="magenta" width="20%"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHO</strong></span></td>
<td width="70%">Al Ain vs Juventus</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="green"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHAT</strong></span></td>
<td>FIFA Club World Cup 2025</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="sky"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHEN</strong></span></td>
<td>9pm ET / 6pm PT• Wednesday, June 18, 2025</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="red"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHERE</strong></span></td>
<td><em><a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">DAZN</a></em></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="yellow"><span style="color: #e04403"><strong>FREE ACCESS</strong></span></td>
<td><strong><a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">WATCH NOW ON DAZN</a></strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>

<div>
<h2>More details of how to watch</h2>
You can watch Al Ain vs Juventus and every match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 for free on <a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">DAZN</a>. Simply register with your email to create a free account—no credit card required. The tournament is streamed in English and Spanish, live and on-demand.
</div>

<div>
The DAZN app is available on web browsers, iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Vizio), Xbox, and PlayStation consoles.
</div>

<div>
<strong>Here are the steps to watch the Club World Cup for free on DAZN:</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>1. Visit <a href="https://www.dazn.com/CanelaMedia" target="blank" rel="noopener">DAZN</a> or download the DAZN app.</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>2. Click the “Log In” or “Get Started” button.</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>3. Enter your email and create a password to register.</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>4. Once registered, navigate to the “FIFA Club World Cup” section to stream live games.</strong>
</div>
<div>
<strong>5. No payment or subscription is necessary to watch the matches.</strong>
</div>

<div>
<strong>SEE MORE:</strong> <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/club-world-cup-tv-schedule-streaming-links/">Schedule of FIFA Club World Cup 2025 games on US TV and streaming</a>
</div><div>
Get your free copy of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ultimate-soccer-tv-streaming-guide/">The Ultimate Soccer TV and Streaming Guide</a> for all U.S. broadcast details on leagues around the world.
</div>

<div>
And don’t forget to download the free <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2020/12/26/soccer-tv-schedules-app-making-it-easier-to-watch-soccer-games-on-tv/">Soccer TV Schedules App</a> for Apple or Android, with full listings of live soccer available in the U.S.
</div>


How to watch Al Ain vs Juventus in the USA: Live Stream and TV for FIFA Club World Cup 2025

How to watch Al Ain vs Juventus in the USA: Live Stream and TV for FIFA Club World Cup 2025 - World Soccer Talk

<p>Al-Hilal’s sensational 5-4 win away at defending Champions League winners Al-Ain saw Neymar make his long-awaited return to action. The Brazilian ace last played 369 days ago when Brazil lost to Uruguay. He featured in the last 15 minutes of the end-to-end action between Western Asia’s two finest clubs.</p>



<h2>Goals galore in Neymar’s return</h2>



<p>Just when Neymar prepared to enter the scene, Salem Al-Dosari completed his hat trick with a fine finish. That was the game’s eighth goal as Al-Hilal regained their two-goal lead to maintain their perfect Champions League start.</p>



<p>Another drama followed soon after his entrance. Ali Al-Bulayhi, who made a name for taunting opponents, saw a red card after a lengthy VAR review. Moments later, Khalid Eisa’s fingertip prevented a fairytale strike from Neymar. The sharp movements we’ve seen in recent training footage were finally repeated on the playing field.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Later in the game, <a href="https://www.the-afc.com/en/club/afc_champions_league/news/al_ains_rahimi_wins_mvp_top_scorer_awards.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">last season’s top-scorer</a> Soufiane Rahimi also completed his hat-trick in a highly memorable encounter. Al-Ain was the only team to beat Al-Hilal last season as Hernan Crespo’s side won the semi-final clash 5-4 on aggregate.</p>



<p>The two-time winners are currently top of the Champions League after three rounds. They also collected the maximum number of points in the league from the first seven matches.</p>



<p>Al-Ain only has a single point after losing back-to-back games. AFC developed a similar format to the one UEFA applied in their competitions this season.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="674" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/10/16030734/Neymar-return-1-1200x674-1200x674.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-536304" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<h2>Al-Hilal coped admirably before Neymar made his return</h2>



<p>The AFC Champions League was also the stage where Neymar last played for Al-Hilal before the serious injury he suffered during the international break. At Iran’s Azadi Sport Complex, Neymar scored his first goal for the club in a 3-0 win over Esteghlal.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To everyone’s surprise, without their most expensive signing, Al-Hilal only dropped league points against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in a year. And they will not have his services in the Saudi Pro League until 2025.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Jorge Jesus’ side <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/neymar-cant-play-for-al-hilal-until-2025-despite-injury-recovery/">decided to leave out Neymar</a> while registering eight foreigners after the end of the transfer window. Renan Lodi, who was picked ahead of his compatriot, scored the opening goal on Monday against Al-Ain.</p>



<p>The continental competition will continue to provide much-needed playing time for former Barcelona and PSG starlet. Clubs can submit up to 35 players to their Champions League squad.</p>



<h2>Different situations at Seleção</h2>



<p>As it stands, Brazil doesn’t seem to have the privilege to make up for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/brazil-monitor-neymar-recovery-international-return-in-2025/">Neymar’s absence</a>. Before the recent international break, Dorival Junior’s team struggled in CONMEBOL’s marathon World Cup qualifiers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In particular, Vinicius Junior’s inability to replicate his club form came under scrutiny. Although it’s common to leave out players returning from long-standing injuries, Dorival is expected to call Neymar for November’s games against Venezuela and Uruguay.</p>



<p>Brazil failed to win both corresponding fixtures in the first half of the qualifying stage. Neymar can play two more games before his potential return to the national team. Al-Hilal will face second-division club Al-Tai in the cup next week. Three days after the big clash at Al-Nassr without Neymar, Hilal will play Esteghlal in the fourth matchday of the Champions League.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>


Neymar makes long-awaited return in a fiery encounter

Al-Hilal’s sensational 5-4 win away at defending Champions League winners Al-Ain saw Neymar make his long-awaited return to action.

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